That’s the insight that’s helped drive PCS Cleaning Services to grow into a full-service cleaning and maintenance company employing more than 85 people.
Founder Nompumelelo Mhlanga explains that demand for cleaning services has skyrocketed since the Covid-19 pandemic – and she’s not surprised. “Our cleaning services are really part of our clients’ strategy to reduce absenteeism,” she notes, pointing out that clean office spaces are essential for wellness. “During the pandemic, one of our key clients – Hesto Harnesse – commented on the role we played in keeping infections low.”
A proud achievement indeed, but by no means the only way in which PCS Cleaning Services has contributed to the overall performance of client companies. “Cleaning is a big part of creating an inspiring, conducive space, where employees remain motivated,” Nompumelelo comments. “What’s more, research shows that cleanliness reduces clutter, and without clutter, we are better able to focus on the task at hand. From a purely practical perspective, a clutter-free environment means that it’s easy to find items. It cuts down on stress and even reduces the occurrence of on-site injuries.”
While PCS Cleaning Services is creating multiple benefits for clients, its impact is felt by the community, too. Nompumelelo explains that the 100% black, youth-owned company is committed to creating jobs in iLembe, the KwaZulu-Natal region where it is based. “Our strategy is to identify unskilled individuals and empower them through training and job preparedness workshops.”
This training typically has a strong focus on the cleaning industry but also encompasses personal development, personal hygiene and leadership skills, leaving the individual imminently more employable. With clients including the likes of Hesto Harnesses, Avon and Unitrade, PCS Cleaning Services currently contributes around R450 000 to the local economy in the form of salaries and wages, and plans to increase this amount to R750 000 by the next financial year.
Nompumelelo explains that this growth will be achieved by increasing the scope of services. “At present, our most in-demand services include commercial cleaning, gardening and waste management services, but we’ve evolved into a one-stop shop for all commercial facilities management and housekeeping needs,” she notes.
This means that in addition to customised cleaning, the company also offers deep cleaning, high-end de-cob webbing and even window cleaning. Pest control and hygiene services are also to be added to the mix, and the company is further looking to also acquire a contract which will position it to supply SHE bins, hand dryers, toilet paper and soap dispensers. A roof cleaning contract completes the offering, making PCS Cleaning Services a one-stop shop.
“This all goes towards strengthening our order book,” Nompumelelo says, adding that the company is looking forward to growing its client base in KwaZulu-Natal’s North Coast. “It’s an ambitious goal, and one which requires that we purchase new equipment so that we can diversify our services, but we’re excited to enter a new phase,” she concludes.
This article was first published in African Leaders Magazine
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Nompumelelo Mhlanga is a participant on the SAB Foundation’s Tholoana Enterprise Programme, an 18-month business accelerator powered by Fetola which supports the lasting success of businesses from across South Africa, particularly those owned by women, youth and people living with disabilities, and those in township and rural areas.
